Electromagnetic generator and method of using same

ABSTRACT

An electromagnetic generator comprises one or more flux assembly having at least one coil and at least one magnetic field source separated by a gap. An interference drum has a sidewall at least partially positioned inside the gap and comprising at least one magnetic field permeable zone and at least one magnetic field impermeable zone. The interference drum is movable relative to the at least one coil and to the at least one magnetic field source to alternatively position the at least one magnetic field permeable zone and the at least one magnetic field impermeable zone of the sidewall inside the gap. When the interference drum is moved, magnetic flux is created in the coil, and induces electrical current to flow into the coil. The coil may be connected to an external circuit, such that the electrical current may flow through the external circuit.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119 (e) of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/421,000, filed Dec. 8, 2010, theentire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF INVENTIVE CONCEPTS

The inventive concepts disclosed herein generally relate toelectromagnetic generators, and more particularly, but not by way oflimitation, to an electromagnetic generator having an interference drumpositioned between one or more coil assemblies and magnet assemblies.

BACKGROUND

The wind has historically been one of the most widely used naturalresources to provide the energy necessary to power our needs. Windmillsare still used to harness the wind's energy to grind grains into flour.Sailboats and windsurfs use sails to capture the power of the wind totravel across water. Recent increases in the demand for energy, combinedwith the dwindling supplies of fossil fuels, have caused electricalutility companies to take a renewed look at alternative methods forproducing electrical power.

One alternative method of producing electrical power involves theharnessing of wind energy by a wind turbine to drive an electromagneticgenerator. Wind turbines typically use a series of blades fixed to thetop of a tower to rotate a shaft about a horizontal axis. The bladeshave an aerodynamic shape, such that when wind blows across the surfaceof the blades a lift force is generated causing the blades to rotate theshaft about its axis. The shaft is connected, typically via a gearbox,to an electromagnetic generator located in a structure called a nacellewhich is positioned behind the blades. The gearbox converts the rotationspeed of the blades into a rotation speed usable by the generator toproduce electricity at a frequency that is proper for the electricalgrid it is providing power to. The nacelle houses a number of componentswhich are needed in modern high capacity wind turbines. In addition tothe aforementioned gearbox and electromagnetic generator, othercomponents may include a yaw drive which rotates the wind turbine,various controllers such as load balancing systems, and a brake that maybe used to slow the generator down.

Electromagnetic generators are well known in the prior art. Broadly,electromagnetic generators generate electricity by varying a magneticfield, which induces electrical current in an adjacent coil. Themagnetic field source has traditionally been a permanent magnet, butelectromagnets have also been recently used.

Prior art devices typically use a magnetic field source, which isdisposed adjacent to a coil, such that a small air gap separates thetwo. Several such pairs of magnetic field sources and coils may be usedin a single device to increase efficiency. Most prior art devicesoperate by either moving the magnetic field source relative to the coil,or by moving the coil relative to the magnetic field source, to generatemagnetic field fluctuations (also referred to as “magnetic flux” or“flux”), and thereby induce electrical current into the coils. To thatend, most prior art devices use a stator and a rotor, the stator housingthe stationary component, and the rotor moving the other componentrelative to the stationary one.

Additionally, there are several prior art devices that utilize amagnetic field blocking device to generate a magnetic flux within coilsor windings to induce electrical current therein. The magnetic fieldblocking device is typically a magnetic field impermeable disk which hasmagnetic field permeable portions cut out in tooth-like or window-likeconfigurations. The disk is disposed in the air gap between the magneticfield source and the coil. The flux-blocking disk is rotated in such away as to alternatively allow axial flux to pass through from themagnetic field source to the coil, or to redirect the axial flux awayfrom the coil. Alternatively, the flux-blocking disk is held stationary,and one of the coils or magnetic field source are rotated. For examplesof such prior art devices see U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,431,444, 3,983,430,4,639,626, and 6,140,730.

A major disadvantage of such prior art devices is the axial orientationof the flux relative to the disk, which poses three main problems.First, the surface area across which axial flux is generated is limitedby the radius of the disk. Second, the frequency of the inducedelectrical current varies across the length of the radius of the disk,due to the varying angular velocity of various points along the radius.Third, the impermeable portions of the disk are pulled by the magneticfield source, and the permeable portions are not pulled by the magneticfield source as they cross the air gap between the magnetic field sourceand the coil. This alternating pull causes the disk to resonatelaterally away from its axis of rotation, which resonating motion willhereinafter be referred to as “wobble.” The wobble is proportionallyrelated to the radius of the disc, the strength of the magnetic field,and the rotations-per-minute (rpm or rpms) at which the disc rotates,and is inversely related to the thickness of the disk. In order tominimize the wobble, efficiency is sacrificed by lowering rpm,increasing the air gap between the magnetic field source and the coilsto accommodate a thicker disc, and/or reducing the radius of the discand thereby the surface area across which flux is generated.

Accordingly, there exists a need for a more efficient electromagneticgenerator capable of operating at relatively low rpm and producingelectrical current with minimal efficiency loss due to disk wobble,small surface area across which flux is generated, and/or air gap size.The inventive concepts disclosed herein are directed to such anelectromagnetic generator and to method of using thereof.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the inventive concepts disclosed herein are directed toan electromagnetic generator. The electromagnetic generator comprisesone or more flux assembly having at least one coil and at least onemagnetic field source separated by a gap and an interference drum havinga sidewall. The sidewall is at least partially positioned inside the gapand has at least one magnetic field permeable zone and at least onemagnetic field impermeable zone. The interference drum is movablerelative to the at least one coil and to the at least one magnetic fieldsource to alternatively position the at least one magnetic fieldpermeable zone and the at least one magnetic field impermeable zoneinside the gap.

In another aspect, the inventive concepts disclosed herein are directedto an interference drum adapted to be used in a generator of electricalenergy. The interference drum comprises a hub and a sidewall extendingfrom the hub. The sidewall comprises at least one magnetic fieldpermeable zone and at least one magnetic field impermeable zone.

In yet another aspect, the inventive concepts disclosed herein aredirected to a method, comprising attaching a mandrel having a wall to ahub and forming a sidewall of an interference drum with one or morealternating magnetic field permeable zone and one or more magnetic fieldimpermeable zone.

In yet another aspect, the inventive concepts disclosed herein aredirected to a method, comprising using an electromagnetic generator togenerate electrical energy. The electromagnetic generator comprises (1)one or more flux assembly having at least one coil and at least onemagnetic field source separated by a gap; (2) an interference drumhaving a sidewall comprising at least one magnetic field permeable zoneand at least one magnetic field impermeable zone and being at leastpartially positioned inside the gap separating the at least one coil andthe at least one magnetic field source. The interference drum is movableinside the gap to alternatively position the at least one magnetic fieldpermeable zone and the at least one magnetic field impermeable zoneinside the gap separating the at least one coil and the at least onemagnetic field source to create magnetic flux into the at least onecoil, such that electrical current is induced into the at least onecoil. The method further comprises establishing a circuit between the atleast one coil and a power grid to permit the electrical energy to flowto the power grid.

In yet another aspect, the inventive concepts disclosed herein aredirected to a wind turbine, comprising a tower having a base and agenerator mount and a generator assembly attached to the generatormount. The generator assembly comprises one or more flux assembly havingat least one coil and at least one magnetic field source separated by agap, and an interference drum having a sidewall comprising at least onemagnetic field permeable zone and at least one magnetic fieldimpermeable zone. The sidewall is at least partially rotatablypositioned inside the gap separating the at least one coil and the atleast one magnetic field source. The wind turbine further comprises arotatable propeller operatively connected to the at least one of theinterference drum and the one or more flux assembly. The interferencedrum is rotatable to alternatively position the at least one magneticfield permeable zone and the at least one magnetic field impermeablezone inside the gap separating the at least one coil and the at leastone magnetic field source to create magnetic flux into the at least onecoil such that electrical current is induced in the at least one coil.

In yet another aspect, the inventive concepts disclosed herein aredirected to a wind turbine, comprising: (1) a base; (2) a nacelleconnected to the base; and (3) a propeller having one or more blades anda first shaft rotatably connected to the nacelle. An electromagneticgenerator at least partially disposed in the nacelle, theelectromagnetic generator comprises: (a) a base plate defining adisk-shaped surface having a center; (b) one or more flux assemblyattached to the base plate and radially extending thereon, the one ormore flux assembly having at least one coil and at least one magneticfield source separated by an axial air gap; and (c) an interference drumhaving a second shaft rotatably extending through the base plate andoperably connected to the first shaft of the propeller, and acylindrical sidewall comprising at least one magnetic field permeablezone and at least one magnetic field impermeable zone at least partiallypositioned inside the axial gap. The interference drum is rotatableabout the shaft to alternately position the at least one magnetic fieldpermeable zone and the at least one magnetic field impermeable zoneinside the axial air gap to create radial flux into the at least onecoil such that electrical current is induced in the at least one coil.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Like reference numerals in the drawings represent and refer to the sameelement or function. Implementations of the disclosure may be betterunderstood when consideration is given to the following detaileddescription thereof. Such description makes reference to the annexedpictorial illustrations, schematics, graphs, drawings, and appendices.In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a partial cutout perspective view of a wind generator assemblyconstructed according to the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is a side view showing an embodiment of a generator of electricalenergy according to the inventive concepts disclosed herein, with across-section of the interference drum shown for clarity.

FIG. 3A is a side view of the generator of electrical energy shown inFIG. 2.

FIG. 3B is a fragmental detail view along line 3B of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a base plate of the generator shown in FIG.2.

FIG. 5A is a bottom plan view of the flux base shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view along line 5B-5B of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6 is a side view of a flux assembly on the generator shown in FIG.2.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a coil mount of the generator shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is a side view of a magnet assembly of the generator shown inFIG. 2.

FIG. 9A is an end view of a slide of the magnet assembly shown in FIG.8.

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view along line 9B-9B of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A is a front view of a magnet bracket of the magnet assemblyshown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10B-10B of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11 is a front view of a magnet mount of the magnet assembly shownin FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the generator shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 13A is a side view of a shaft support assembly of the generatorshown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 13B is a top plan view of the shaft support assembly shown in FIG.13A.

FIG. 14A is a side view of the bearing tube of the shaft supportassembly shown in FIG. 13A.

FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14B-14B of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14C-14C of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 15A is an end view of the gusset shown in FIG. 13A.

FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view along line 15B-15B of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 15C is a top plan view of the gusset shown in FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram of steps of an embodiment of a method formanufacturing an interference drum for a generator of electrical energyaccording to the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

FIG. 17A is a partial cross-sectional view of a mandrel attached to ahub in accordance with step 402 of the flow diagram shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 17B is a fragmental view along line 17B of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18A is a partial cross-sectional view of a first layer of materialapplied to the hub and mandrel according to step 404 of the flow diagramshown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18B is a partial top plan of the external axial surface of thefirst layer of material shown in FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19A is a partial cross-sectional view of a seat cut into the firstlayer of material applied to the hub and mandrel according to step 406of the diagram shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 19B is a partial top plan view of an external axial surface of theseat shown in FIG. 19A.

FIG. 20A is a partial cross-sectional view of a second layer of materialapplied inside the seat in the first layer of material according to step408 of the flow diagram shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 20B is a partial top plan view of the second layer of materialshown in FIG. 20A.

FIG. 21A is a partial cross-sectional view of a third layer of materialapplied over the first and the second layer of material according tostep 410 of the flow diagram shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 21B is a partial top plan view of the external axial surface of thethird layer of material shown in FIG. 21A.

FIG. 22A is a partial cross-sectional view of apertures being cutthrough the third and second layers of material applied to the hub andmandrel according to step 412 of the flow diagram shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 22B is a partial top plan view of the external axial surface of thefirst, second, and third layers of material applied to the hub andmandrel shown in FIG. 22A.

FIG. 23A is a partial cross-sectional view of the filling of theapertures with epoxy to the height of the third layer according to step414 of the flow diagram shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 23B is a partial top plan view of the external axial surface of thefirst, second, and third layers of material applied to the hub andmandrel shown in FIG. 23A.

FIG. 24A is a partial cross-sectional view of the two annular groovescut into the drum according to step 416 of the flow diagram shown inFIG. 16.

FIG. 24B is a partial top plan view of the external axial surface of thedrum shown in FIG. 24A.

FIG. 25A is a partial cross-sectional view of the removal of the mandrelfrom the drum according to step 418 of the flow diagram shown in FIG.16.

FIG. 25B is a partial top elevated view of the external axial surface ofthe removal of the mandrel from the drum shown in FIG. 25A.

FIG. 26 is a partial cross-sectional view of the finished axial externalsurface of the drum manufactured according to step 420 of the flowdiagram shown in FIG. 16.

FIG. 27 is a partial side view of a generator of electrical energy inaccordance with the inventive concepts disclosed herein, having aplurality of rows of flux assemblies that are angularly offset relativeto one another.

FIG. 28 is a partial front view of the generator of electrical energy ofFIG. 27, with the interference drum assembly not shown for clarity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive conceptsdisclosed herein in detail, it is to be understood that the inventiveconcepts are not limited in their application to the details ofconstruction and the arrangement of the components or steps ormethodologies set forth in the following description or illustrated inthe drawings. The inventive concepts disclosed herein are capable ofother embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminologyemployed herein is for the purpose of description and should not beregarded as limiting.

In the following detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure,numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a morethorough understanding of the inventive concepts disclosed herein.However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art thatthe inventive concepts within the disclosure may be practiced withoutthese specific details. In other instances, well-known features have notbeen described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating thedescription.

As used herein the notation “a-n” appended to a reference numeral isintended as merely convenient shorthand to reference one, or more thanone, and up to infinity, of the element or feature identified by therespective reference numeral (e.g., 100 a-n). Similarly, a letterfollowing a reference numeral is intended to reference an embodiment ofthe feature or element that may be similar, but not necessarilyidentical, to a previously described element or feature bearing the samereference numeral (e.g., 100, 100 a, 100 b, etc.). Such shorthandnotations are used for purposes of clarity and convenience only, andshould not be construed to limit the inventive concepts disclosed hereinin any way, unless expressly stated to the contrary.

Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to aninclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or Bis satisfied by anyone of the following: A is true (or present) and B isfalse (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (orpresent), and both A and B are true (or present).

In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elementsand components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely forconvenience and to give a general sense of the inventive concepts. Thisdescription should be read to include one or at least one and thesingular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meantotherwise.

As used herein the terms “axial,” “axially,” and any variations thereof,are intended to include extending substantially parallel to, or alongthe same line as, an axis of rotation.

As used herein the terms “air gap,” “gap,” and any variations thereofshall be understood to include a distance separating two or more objectsor surfaces, regardless of whether a gas or fluid is between the objectsor surfaces, unless expressly stated to the contrary.

Further, as used herein the terms “radial,” “radially,” and anyvariations thereof are intended to include extending along a radius, ora line substantially perpendicular to an axis of rotation.

Finally, as used herein any reference to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular element, feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment is includedin at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in oneembodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarilyall referring to the same embodiment.

The inventive concepts disclosed herein are directed to a generator ofelectrical energy. Broadly, the generator comprises one or more pairs ofradially oriented and concentrically disposed opposing stationary pairsof magnetic field sources and coils separated by an axial air gap. Aninterference drum is disposed in the air gap separating the magneticfield sources and the coils, the interference drum having alternatingmagnetic field permeable zones and magnetic field impermeable zonesalong an axial surface thereof. When the interference drum is rotated,the magnetic field between the static magnetic field sources and thestatic coils is alternatively allowed to reach the coils, or redirectedaway from the coils by the alternating zones of the interference drumassembly. The resulting radial flux induces electrical current in thecoils.

Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1, a windgenerator turbine 50 is shown as having a support assembly 54, one ormore blades 52, a shaft 56, a generator assembly housing 58, and agenerator assembly 100. The generator assembly 100 is shown through apartial cutout of the generator assembly housing 58. The generatorassembly housing 58 is connected to the support assembly 54. Thegenerator assembly housing 58 may also be referred to as a nacelle. Thegenerator assembly 100 is positioned within the generator assemblyhousing 58, and the shaft 56 may connect the blades 52 to the generatorassembly 100.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-3B, the generator assembly 100 comprises a baseplate 102, one or more flux assemblies 104 a and 104 b (two being shownfor clarity), and an interference drum assembly 106. For the purposes ofclarity, the base plate 102 shall be arbitrarily referenced hereinafteras oriented horizontally, and the orientations of the flux assemblies104 a and 104 b and interference drum assembly 106 shall be discussedrelative to a horizontally oriented base plate 102. It is to beunderstood however, that such orientation designations refer only to theorientation of the various components of the generator assembly 100 onerelative to another, and do not necessarily relate to any externalobject, direction, or orientation. Such designations are made forpurposes of clarity and convenience only, and are not to be regarded aslimiting the inventive concepts disclosed herein in any way.

The base plate 102 preferably defines a substantially horizontaldisk-shaped flat surface (132, FIG. 4) having a center (134, FIG. 4).The flux assemblies 104 a and 104 b and the interference drum assembly106 can be mounted onto the base plate 102 via base bolts 108, althoughother mounting methods can be used. The flux assemblies 104 a and 104 bpreferably extend substantially vertically from the base plate 102. Theflux assemblies 104 a and 104 b are substantially identical inconfiguration and function so only the flux assembly 104 a will bedescribed hereinafter. The flux assembly 104 a comprises a flux base110, a coil assembly 112, and a magnet assembly 114. The coil assembly112 and the magnet assembly 114 are preferably mounted onto the fluxbase 110, and are disposed opposite to one another. The coil assembly112 and magnet assembly 114 are preferably arranged in a radialorientation relative to the center of the base plate 102, and arepreferably separated by an axial annular air gap 116, in which theinterference drum assembly 106 is preferably at least partiallydisposed. While the coil assembly 112 is shown as being closer to thecenter 134 of the base plate 102 than the magnet assembly 114, it is tobe understood that alternatively the magnet assembly 114 can be disposedcloser to the center 134 of the base plate 102 than the coil assembly112.

The generator assembly 100 may comprise six flux assemblies 104 amounted onto the base plate 102 such that the flux assemblies 104 a aresymmetrically disposed about the disk-shaped surface 132 (FIG. 4)defined by the base plate 102. The distance between any two of the sixflux assemblies 104 a is preferably equal to the distance between anyother two flux assemblies 104 a, resulting in the six flux assemblies104 a being separated by 60° along the disk-shaped surface 132 (FIG. 4)of the base plate 102 and extending radially from the center 134 (FIG.4) thereof. It is to be understood, however, that a different number offlux assemblies 104 a can be used with the inventive concepts disclosedherein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The interference drum assembly 106 preferably extends substantiallyvertically from the base plate 102. The interference drum assembly 106comprises a shaft 118, a shaft housing 230, a hub assembly 128, and adrum 226. The shaft 118 has a central axis 120, and preferably extendssubstantially perpendicularly to the base plate 102 through the center134 of the base plate 102. The end of the shaft 118 extending below thebase plate 102 can be retained by a shaft collar 122 (see FIG. 3A), forexample. The shaft 118 can be substantially cylindrical in shape and canbe made from any suitable material having sufficient strength anddurability, and preferably non-conductive and/or non-ferrous materialsto limit the potential of eddy currents being induced within thegenerator assembly 100 can be used. The shaft 118 connects to the hubassembly 128 using any suitable arrangement. The hub assembly 128preferably comprises a substantially cylindrical hub 130, or cancomprise one, two, or more spokes (not shown) connecting the shaft 118and the drum 226. The hub 130 is preferably substantially parallel tothe surface 132 of the base plate 102. The hub 130 connects to the shaft118. The hub 130 can be made from any suitable material with the desiredstrength and durability, and preferably non-conductive and/ornon-ferrous materials to limit the potential of eddy currents beinginduced within the generator assembly 100.

The drum 226 preferably has a substantially cylindrical sidewall 276.The drum 226 is connected to the hub 130. The drum 226 is preferablysubstantially perpendicular to the base plate 102 and is adapted torotate around the center 134 of the base plate 102 when the shaft 118 isrotated about the central axis 120. The drum 226 is at least partiallydisposed inside the air gap 116 between the coil assembly 112 and themagnet assembly 114. The drum 226 can be manufactured as will bedescribed below with reference to FIGS. 16-26.

Referring now to FIG. 4, the base plate 102 can be of any suitableshape, and preferably defines a substantially disk-shaped surface 132which is substantially flat. The surface 132 has a center 134, anaperture 136 preferably located at the center 134, a first set ofapertures 138, and a second set of apertures 140. Only some of theapertures 138 and 140 are referenced in FIG. 4, for purposes of clarity.

The first set of apertures 138 are arranged along the surface 132 insuch a way as to define four concentric rings 144 a-d of proportionatelyincreasing radius, and are aligned as to form six radial lines 142separated by about 60°.

The second set of apertures 140 can be arranged along the surface 132 insuch a way as to define two concentric rings—146 a-b, and arranged toform six radial lines 148, which are preferably offset by about 30° fromthe radial lines 142 defined by the first set of apertures 138. Theapertures 138 can be adapted to receive the base bolts 108, in order toaffix the interference drum assembly 106 and the flux assembly 104 a tothe base plate 102. The base plate 102 can be made from a thermosetplastic laminate material such as a material of the type sold under thename Garolite G-10, but acrylic plastics such as Plexiglas™, or anyother material of suitable strength and durability can be used. The baseplate 102 is preferably made of non-conductive and/or non-ferrousmaterials to limit the potential of eddy currents being induced withinthe generator assembly 100. The disk-shaped surface 132 of the baseplate 102 can be preferably about 24 inches in diameter, but it is to beunderstood that the dimensions of the base plate 102 can be varieddepending on the material used for the manufacture of the base plate 102and/or the operational and environmental variables expected to beencountered by the generator assembly 100.

The base plate 102 can function to structurally support the variouscomponents of the generator assembly 100. The shape, size, organization,and number of apertures 138 and 140 can vary. The aperture 136 isadapted to receive the shaft 118 therethrough. The base plate 102 candefine a part of an external housing (not shown) protecting thegenerator assembly 100 from environmental variables. Alternatively, thegenerator assembly 100 can be completely or partially enclosed by aseparate protective housing, such as the generator assembly housing 58shown in FIG. 1, for example. It should be understood that the baseplate 102 can have any size or shape, as long as it allows for theconcentric radial orientation of the interference drum assembly 106, themagnet assembly 114, and the coil assembly 112 along the surface 132 ofthe base plate 102.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5B, the flux base 110 is preferably made froma thermoset plastic laminate material, such as a material of the typesold under the name Garolite G-10, but any material of suitable strengthand durability can be used. The flux base 110 is preferably made ofnon-conductive and/or non-ferrous materials to limit the potential ofeddy currents being induced within the generator assembly 100. The fluxbase 110 is preferably about 1 inch thick, but it is to be understoodthat the dimensions of the flux base 110 can be varied depending on thematerial used for its manufacture and/or the operational andenvironmental variables expected to be encountered by the generatorassembly 100.

The flux base 110 preferably has an elongated shape, a first end 150, asecond end 152, a notched middle portion 154, and a bottom 156. Thebottom 156 preferably has four base apertures 158 adapted to threadinglyreceive four base bolts 108 therein, in order to mount the flux base 110onto the base plate 102. The bottom 156 of the flux base 110 may have asubstantially flat rectangular surface to ensure that the flux base 110fits flush with the surface 132 of the base plate 102, such that theflux base 110 is extending substantially vertically from the surface 132of the base plate 102 although other configurations can be used. It isto be understood that the flux base 110 can be attached to the surface132 by any suitable means known in the art, such as screws, rivets,welds, adhesives, and combinations thereof, for example. Alternatively,the flux base 110 and the base plate 102 maybe formed as a single piece,or another element (not shown) may be used to connect the flux base 110to the base plate 102. The flux base 110 may also have mountingapertures 160 cut or otherwise formed into the flat surfaces of itsfirst end 150 and its second end 152. The apertures 160 are preferablyarranged in a substantially rectangular orientation, and aresubstantially perpendicular relative to the base apertures 158. Theapertures 160 function to allow for the attachment of the magnetassembly 114 and the coil assembly 112 to the flux base 110.

Referring now to FIG. 6, the flux assembly 104 a comprises a coilassembly 112, and a magnet assembly 114.

The coil assembly 112 has a coil mount 190, and a coil 192. The coil 192can have two mounting apertures 195 used to mount the coil 192 onto thecoil mount 190. The coil mount 190 has apertures 194 adapted tosubstantially align with the apertures 160 of the flux base 110. Thecoil mount 190 can be mounted onto the flux base 110 by inserting bolts196 through apertures 194 and mounting apertures 160. The coil mount 190may also have two mounting apertures 195 cut or otherwise formedtherein, the mounting apertures 195 adapted to correspond with mountingapertures 160, and receive bolts 197 to secure the coil 192 to the coilmount 190. The coil 192 can be any conventional coil 192 and can haveany type or number of windings, cores, and/or poles, as long as the coil192 is capable of receiving a magnetic flux from the magnet 172, suchthat electrons from the coil 192 are forced to flow through anelectrical circuit (not shown) which may be external to the coil 192.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the coil mount 190 is preferably about 0.5inches thick, but it is to be understood that the dimensions of the coilmount 190 can be varied depending on the material used for itsmanufacture and/or the operational and environmental variables expectedto be encountered by the generator assembly 100. The coil mount 190functions to structurally attach the coil assembly 112 to the flux base110 via the apertures 194. The coil mount 190 can be directly attachedto the flux base 110 via bolts, nuts, screws, welds, adhesives, or byany other suitable means, for example. The coil mount 190 can bepreferably made from a material of the type sold under the name GaroliteG-10, but any material of suitable strength and durability, andpreferably non-conductive and/or non-ferrous materials to limit thepotential of eddy currents being induced within the generator assembly100, can be used. The coil mount 190 can mount onto the flux base 110 ina fixed position. Alternatively, the coil mount 190 can mount onto theflux base 110 in an adjustable position, by using slots which allow thecoil mount 190 to slide relative to the flux base 110, for example.

Referring now to FIGS. 8-11, the magnet assembly 114 preferably has amagnet 162, a magnet slide 164, a magnet mount 166, and an optionalmagnet bracket 198.

The magnet 162 preferably comprises a pair of magnets 168, connectedwith a magnetically-conductive bar 170, such that they form a unitarymagnet 172. The magnets 168 can be any magnets, can be made of anysuitable material, and can be isotropic or anisotropic and combinationsthereof. The magnets 168 can be of any strength, and can have varyingsizes and shapes depending on the size and output requirements of thegenerator assembly 100. The magnets 168 can be arranged in anyconfiguration consistent with defining as least a part of an air gap 116between the magnet assembly 114 and the coil assembly 112, andpreferably being in magnetic communication with the coil assembly 112.The magnets 168 may be permanent magnets, electromagnets, andcombinations thereof. The pair of magnets 168 are preferably connectedvia a bar 170, such that a unitary magnet 172 is formed. The bar 170 ispreferably made of steel, but can be made of any suitable material solong as it functions to connect the two magnets 168 into a unitarymagnet 172. Alternatively, the magnet 172 can comprise a single magnet(not shown). The bar 170 can have a central aperture 200 formedtherethrough, the central aperture 200 adapted to receive a bolt 202.The bar 170 also may have a dowel pin aperture 204 adapted to partiallyreceive a dowel pin 206.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-9B, the magnet assembly 114 further comprisesa magnet slide 164, to which the optional magnet bracket 198 can beattached via bolts 214 a and 214 b, or by other suitable means as willbe described below. The magnet slide 164 preferably has two apertures216 a and 216 b formed therethrough, the apertures 216 a and 216 bpreferably having threads formed therein. The apertures 216 a and 216 bcan be adapted to receive bolts 214 a and 214 b in order to secure themagnet bracket 198 to the magnet slide 164. The magnet slide 164 alsopreferably has a central aperture 218 cut or otherwise formedtherethrough. The central aperture 218 is adapted to receive any portionof a bolt 202 which extends beyond the magnet bracket 198 as will bedescribed below. The central aperture 218 may also be designed toreceive and retain therein the slide adjustment rod 182. The slideadjustment rod 182 is preferably made of an acrylic plastic materialsuch as Plexiglas™ for example, or any material of suitable strength anddurability, and preferably non-conductive and/or non-ferrous materialsto limit the potential of eddy currents being induced within thegenerator assembly 100, can be used. The slide adjustment rod 182 can besecured inside the central aperture 218 by the use of epoxy, epoxyresins, or other suitable adhesives, for example. The slide adjustmentrod 182 preferably has a threaded end 220 which extends at leastpartially laterally from the magnet mount 166, such that a slideadjustment washer 222 and adjustment nut 224 can be attached to thethreaded end 220 of the slide adjustment rod 182. The slide adjustmentwasher 222 can rest against the magnet bracket 198. A spring (not shown)may be inserted over the slide adjustment rod 182, or any other suitablemeans may be used to keep the slide adjustment washer 222 pressedagainst the magnet bracket 198. The magnet slide 164 may also have twoor more apertures 226 a and 226 b formed therethrough, which apertures226 a and 226 b are preferably substantially perpendicular to theapertures 216 a and 216 b.

The magnet slide 164 is preferably made of 1 inch thick thermosetplastic laminate material such as the material sold under the nameGarolite G-10, but acrylic plastics such as Plexiglas™, epoxy resins, orany material of suitable strength and durability, and preferablynon-conductive and/or non-ferrous materials to limit the potential ofeddy currents being induced within the generator assembly 100, can beused. Additionally, the magnet slide 164 can have any suitablethickness, size, or shape, so long as the magnet slide 164 is capable ofsupporting the magnet 172, and is preferably capable of slidablyadjusting the position of magnet 172 relative to the flux base 110 andthe coil assembly 112, in order to adjust the size of the air gap 116.The magnet slide 164 can be mounted onto the flux base 110 by insertinglockdown bolts 180 through the adjustment slots 178 a and 178 b of themagnet mount 166 and into apertures 226 a and 226 b respectively. Theposition of the magnet slide 164 can be adjusted by tightening orloosening the adjustment nut 224, which results in the sliding of thelockdown bolts 180 into the adjustment slots 178 a and 178 b, in orderto move the magnet slide 164 relative to the magnet mount 166, andthereby the flux base 110 and the coil assembly 112. To secure themagnet slide 164 in position, the lockdown bolts 180 can be tightened.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10B, the optional magnet bracket 198 can besubstantially rectangular in shape and may have substantially flatsurfaces. The magnet bracket 198 can have two mounting apertures 212 aand 212 b, a central aperture 208, and a dowel pin aperture 204. Thedowel pin aperture 204 may be adapted to at least partially receive thedowel pin 206, such that the dowel pin 206 and the bolt 202 engage themagnet 172 and the magnet bracket 198, in order to prevent rotation ofthe magnet 172 and the magnet bracket 198 relative to one another. It isto be understood, however, that any other suitable means can be used tosecure the magnet 172 and the magnet bracket 198 together, such as aplurality of dowel pins, a plurality of bolts, one or more of: screws,rivets, welds, or adhesives, for example. The magnet bracket 198 alsopreferably has a lateral pair of apertures 212 a and 212 b cut orotherwise formed therethrough, the apertures 212 a and 212 b can beadapted to receive bolts 214 a and 214 b respectively. The magnetbracket 198 is preferably made of aluminum, but it is to be understoodthan any material of suitable strength and durability, and preferablynon-conductive and/or non-ferrous materials to limit the potential ofeddy currents being induced within the generator assembly 100 can beused. The magnet bracket 198 can have various shapes and sizes as longas it functions to connect the magnet 172 to the magnet slide 164.Alternatively, a magnet bracket 198 can be omitted, and the magnet 172can be directly connected to the magnet slide 164.

Referring now to FIG. 11, the magnet mount 166 is preferablysubstantially rectangular in shape and is preferably made of a thermosetplastic laminate material such as a material of the type sold under thename Garolite G-10, but acrylic plastics such as Plexiglas™, epoxyresins, or any material of suitable strength and durability, andpreferably non-conductive and/or non-ferrous materials to limit thepotential of eddy currents being induced within the generator assembly100 can be used. The magnet mount 166 may have four or more mountingapertures 174 which are spaced to substantially align with mountingapertures 160 of the flux base 110. The magnet mount 166 may mount ontothe flux base 110 by inserting bolts (not shown) through thecorresponding mounting apertures 174 and mounting apertures 160. Themagnet mount 166 may also have two adjustment slots 178 a and 178 b cuttherein. The adjustment slots 178 a and 178 b can correspond toapertures 212 a and 212 b of the magnet slide 164. The adjustment slots178 a and 178 b may function to allow lockdown bolts 180 (not shown) tobe inserted through the adjustment slots 178 a and 178 b and theapertures 212 a and 212 b, and allow the lockdown bolts 180 to slideinside the adjustment slots 178 a and 178 b, in order for the magnetslide 164 to be slidably adjustable relative to the magnet mount 166. Asthe coil assembly 112 is mounted on the flux base 110, the magnet slide164 is mounted onto the magnet mount 166, and the size of the air gap116 can be adjusted by sliding the magnet slide 164 relative to themagnet mount 166. Once the magnet slide 164 is in the desired position,the magnet slide 164 can be secured by tightening the lockdown bolts180.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-14C, the interference drum assembly 106 mayhave a shaft 118, a cylindrical drum 226, and a hub 130 connecting thedrum 226 to the shaft 118, so as to allow the drum 226 to rotate whenthe shaft 118 is rotated. The shaft 118 can be housed inside a shafthousing 230, which may be mounted onto the base plate 102. The shafthousing 230 may comprise a bearing tube 232, shaft bearings 124, agusset 234, long gusset bolts 236 a, and short gusset bolts 236 b. Theshaft housing 230 is preferably mounted onto the base plate 102 via basebolts 108, such that the shaft housing 230 is substantially centeredover the central aperture 136 of the base plate 102, and the shaft 118extends through the central aperture 136 of the base plate 102. Thebearing tube 232 can be substantially cylindrical in shape, and may havea first row of apertures 240 a and a second vertically offset set ofapertures 240 b cut or otherwise formed therethrough. The apertures 240a and 240 b have threads formed into them and are adapted to receivelong gusset bolts 236 a and short gusset bolts 236 b thereinrespectively. The apertures 240 a and 240 b can be substantiallyperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bearing tube 232.

The bearing tube 232 may also have two or more annular recesses 246formed in the bottom and top end thereof. The two annular recesses 246can be adapted to receive and retain annular shaft bearings 124 therein.The shaft bearings 124 can cooperate with the bearing tube 232 torotatably secure and house the shaft 118, and ensure smooth rotation ofthe shaft 118 about its central axis 120. The apertures 240 can bediametrically opposed along the cylindrical surface of the bearing tube232. The bearing tube 232 is preferably made of a thermoset plasticlaminate material such as a material of the type sold under the nameGarolite G-10, but acrylic plastics such as Plexiglas™, epoxy resins, orany material of suitable strength and durability, and preferablynon-conductive and/or non-ferrous materials to limit the potential ofeddy currents being induced within the generator assembly 100 can beused.

Referring now to FIGS. 15A-15C, the gusset 234 can have a bottom surface250 and a bearing tube surface 252 substantially perpendicular to thesurface 132. The bottom surface 250 has two apertures 254 formedtherein. The apertures 254 may have threads formed therein, and may beadapted to receive base bolts 108 in order to mount the gusset 234 ontothe base plate 102. The bearing tube surface 252 can have two or moreapertures 256 a and 256 b cut or otherwise formed therein. The apertures256 can be adapted to receive long gusset bolts 236 a and short gussetbolts 236 b respectively therethrough in order to secure the bearingtube 232 to the gusset 234. Several gussets 234 can be secured to thebearing tube 232 in order for the bearing tube surfaces 252 of thegussets 234 to support the bearing tube 232 in a substantiallyperpendicular orientation relative to the base plate 102.

The number of gussets 234 mounted to the bearing tube 232 can be as lowas one, and can be any odd or even number depending on the sizes of thebearing tube 232 and gussets 234. When an even number of gussets 234 isused, the gussets 234 are preferably mounted on the bearing tube 232 indiametrically opposed locations. When an odd number of gussets 234 isused, the gussets 234 are preferably disposed at regular intervals alongthe cylindrical surface of bearing tube 232, such that the distancesbetween any two gussets 234 is substantially the same as the distancebetween any other two gussets 234. Alternatively, the gusset 234 can beomitted and the bearing tube 232 can be secured to the base plate 102 byany conventional means known in the art. The bearing tube 232 may bewelded to the base plate 102 for example. Alternatively, the bearingtube 232 and the base plate 102 may be formed as a unitary body.

The gusset 234 is preferably made of a thermoset plastic laminatematerial such as the type of material sold under the name Garolite G-10,but acrylic plastics such as Plexiglas™, epoxy resin, or any material ofsuitable strength and durability, and preferably non-conductive and/ornon-ferrous materials to limit the potential of eddy currents beinginduced within the generator assembly 100 can be used.

Referring now to FIG. 16, the preferred method 400 of manufacturing thedrum 226 of the generator assembly 100 shown in FIG. 2 comprises steps402-420, which will be discussed in detail below.

Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17B, step 402 comprises attaching a hub 130to a mandrel 260. The hub 130 is shown as having two apertures 258 a and258 b. The apertures 258 a and 258 b preferably have threads formed intothem. The mandrel 260 may have two disk-shaped sides 262 attachedthereto, and is shown attached to the hub 130 via the insertion of along bolt 266 and a short bolt 264 into apertures 258 a and 258 brespectively. The hub 130 is preferably disk shaped and may have a flatsurface 268 and an axial surface 270. An annular recess 272 ispreferably formed in the axial surface 270 of the hub 130. The annularrecess 272 functions to provide structural support for the variouslayers of the cylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum 226. The hub 130 canbe made of any suitable material, such as a thermoset plastic laminatematerial such as the type of material sold under the name Garolite G-10,but acrylic plastics such as Plexiglas™, or any material of suitablestrength and durability may be used. The hub 130 is preferably made ofnon-conductive and/or non-ferrous materials to limit the potential ofeddy currents being induced within the generator assembly 100. Themandrel 260 preferably has a substantially cylindrical external surface278.

A mold release agent, or film, is applied onto the surface 278, but notonto the hub 130. The mold release agent, or film, can be anyconventional mold release agent or film known in the art, such aswax-based mold release agents, water-based mold release agents,silicone-based mold release agents, Teflon® based mold release agents,and combinations thereof, for example. The mold release agent functionsto later separate the finished cylindrical sidewall 276 from the mandrel260, while at the same time allowing the cylindrical sidewall 276 toremain attached to the hub 130. The mandrel 260 can be made from anymaterial that is able to hold its shape during manufacture, machining,and disassembly/reassembly, such as aircraft-grade aluminum, forexample, or other metals, as well as non-metals.

Referring now to FIGS. 18A-18B, step 404 comprises building up a firstlayer 280 of epoxy-based fiberglass on top of the surface 278 and intothe annular recess 272. The first layer 280 is preferably of asubstantially uniform thickness of about 0.157 inches over the surface278 of the mandrel 260, and preferably has a different thickness overthe annular recess 272. It is to be understood, however, that the firstlayer 280 can have varying thicknesses and more than two portions withdifferent thickness, as required by the size of the drum 226 and theexpected operational variables for the generator assembly 100. The firstlayer 280 is preferably made of epoxy-based fiberglass, but any othersuitable material can be used as is known in the art. The first layer280 is the innermost layer of the cylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum226, and may function to provide structural support to the remaininglayers of the cylindrical sidewall 276.

Referring now to FIGS. 19A-19B, step 406 comprises machining away a seat282 into the first layer 280. The seat 282 preferably has a width whichextends at least partially over the annular recess 272 and at leastpartially over the surface 278, and is preferably of uniform thickness(or depth). It is to be understood however that the seat 282 can havetwo or more areas of different thickness or depths, and may not extendover the annular recess 272.

Referring now to FIGS. 20A-20B, step 408 comprises wrapping a secondlayer 284 of a magnetic shielding film around the first layer 280, suchthat the width of the second layer 284 is preferably substantially thesame as the width of the seat 282. The second layer 284 can be made of amagnetic shielding film such as the film sold under the trademarkMetglas®, and described in Published U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/320,744. Alternatively, any material that is resistant to becomingpermanently magnetized and can redirect a magnetic field can be used toform the second layer 284. In one non-limiting example, one or moresuitable amorphous or crystalline metal alloy ribbon, film, or wirehaving the desired mechanical and electromagnetic properties can be usedto make up the second layer 284. The second layer 284 is preferablyabout 0.200 inches thick, but its thickness can vary depending of thesize of the drum 226, the strength of the magnetic field used, or otheroperational variables of the generator assembly 100. The second layer284 functions to create a magnetic field impermeable cylindrical layer284 of the cylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum 226.

Referring now to FIGS. 21A-21B, step 410 comprises building up a thirdlayer 286 of epoxy based fiberglass on top of the surface 278 and thelateral surface 270, such that the width of the third layer 286 ispreferably substantially equal to the width of the first layer 280. Thethird layer 286 is preferably of a substantially uniform thickness overthe second layer 284, and preferably has a different thickness over thefirst layer 280. It is to be understood however that the third layer 286can have varying thicknesses and more than two zones with differentthickness, as required by the size of the drum 226 and the expectedoperational variables for the generator assembly 100. The third layer286 is preferably made of epoxy-based fiberglass, but any other suitablematerial can be used. The third layer 286 preferably cooperates with thefirst layer 280 to substantially completely enclose the second layer284, and to provide structural support to the second layer 284.

Referring now to FIGS. 22A-22B, step 412 comprises forming magneticfield permeable apertures 288 into the cylindrical sidewall 276. Theapertures 288 can be formed by substantially completely cutting throughthe third layer 286 and the second layer 284, and preferably onlypartially cutting through the first layer 280, for example. Preferably,two apertures 288 are formed along a straight axial line on thecylindrical sidewall 276, the two apertures preferably being separatedby a middle zone 290, where none of the third layer 286, the secondlayer 284, and the first layer 280, have been cut through. The twoapertures 288 can further define two end zones 292 where no layers havebeen cut. It is to be understood that only one aperture 288 or more thantwo apertures 288 may be cut into one or more of the layers of thecylindrical sidewall 276. Further, the apertures 288 may not extend intothe first layer 280, so long at the apertures 288 extend substantiallycompletely through the second layer 284. The apertures 288 may be formedby any means known in the art.

The apertures 288 function to create magnetic field permeable zones 294into the cylindrical sidewall 276. The apertures 288 can besubstantially rectangular in shape and can have dimensions of 1 inch by1.75 inch for example. However, the sizes and shapes of the apertures288 may be varied without departing from the scope of the inventiveconcepts disclosed herein.

A second set of apertures 288 may be formed as described above afterrotating the mandrel 260 exactly 12° by using an indexing mechanism.Preferably, thirty pairs of apertures 288 are cut into the layers of thedrum 226, which thirty pairs are spaced 12° apart in order to cover theentire 360° of the cylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum 226. Thispreferred number and orientations of apertures 288 are related to thepreferred number of six flux assemblies 104 a as follows: the six fluxassemblies 104 a are evenly spaced about the cylindrical sidewall 276 ofthe drum 226, resulting in a 60° of separation between the fluxassemblies 104 a. Each aperture 288 defines a magnetic field permeablezone 294 along the cylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum 226. Theremaining zones 296 are magnetic field impermeable due to the secondlayer 284.

In order to balance the pull of the magnets 172 onto the magnetic fieldimpermeable zones 296 and avoid wobble, the number of pairs of apertures288 can be preferably divisible by both 2 and 3, in order to ensure thatthe pairs of apertures 288 are positioned such that any twodiametrically opposed pairs of flux assemblies 104 a are preferablyeither simultaneously aligned with an aperture 288, or aresimultaneously aligned with a magnetic field impermeable zone 296. Othersuitable numbers of pairs of apertures could be: thirty-six (spaced 10°apart), twenty-four (spaced 15° apart), eighteen (spaced 20° apart),twelve (spaced 30° apart), or six (spaced 60° apart), for example. Itshould be appreciated that if a number of flux assemblies 104 adifferent than six is used, a different relationship between the numberof flux assemblies 104 a and the number or apertures 288 may be used.The calculation of the relationship between the number of fluxassemblies 104 a and the number of apertures 288 would be routine for aperson skilled in the art having the benefit of the instant disclosure.

It is to be understood that the number of apertures 288 may be variedalong with the shape and size of the apertures 288, and the distance indegrees between the several pairs of apertures 288. It is also to beunderstood that a single pair of apertures 288 may be used in someexemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 23A-23B, step 414 comprises filling the apertures288 with epoxy or other suitable material to a thickness preferablysubstantially equal to the thickness of the third layer 286. It is to beunderstood that any suitable material can be used instead of epoxy. Itis also to be understood that the thickness of the epoxy may vary.

Referring now to FIGS. 24A-24B, step 416 comprises forming two or moreannular grooves 298 along the entire cylindrical sidewall 276 of thedrum 226. The annular grooves 298 may be formed by any method known inthe art. The annular grooves 298 are preferably formed with a depth lessthan the thickness of the third layer 286. The depth of the annulargrooves 298 may vary, provided that the annular grooves 298 do not reachthe second layer 284. The annular grooves 298 are preferably parallel toone another, and can encompass the apertures 288. The annular grooves298 are preferably separated by the raised middle zone 290 which alsoseparates the apertures 288. The annular grooves 298 are also preferablyframed on both sides by raised end zones 292. The annular grooves 298can function to provide structural support and strength to thecylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum 226, while at the same timeminimize the thickness of the cylindrical sidewall 276 disposed insidethe air gap 116. It is to be understood that the number of annulargrooves 298 may be varied to correspond to the number of apertures 288.It is also to be understood that alternative embodiments of theinventive concept(s) disclosed herein may have no annular grooves 298,or may have a single annular groove 298, as opposed to multiple annulargrooves 298, for example.

Referring now to FIGS. 25A-25B, step 418 comprises removing the mandrel260 from the drum 226. The short bolt 264 and long bolt 266 can beremoved, and two bolts 300 can be used to push the mandrel 260 away fromthe drum 226 for example. It is to be understood that the mandrel 260may be removed by any other suitable means known in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 26, step 420 comprises cleaning up and balancingthe finished drum 226. If the drum 226 is off-balanced, one or morelightening holes 302 may be drilled into the hub 130. Additionally, thecorner of the cylindrical sidewall 276 disposed furthest from the hub130 may be rounded off. Further, the cylindrical sidewall 276 of thedrum 226 may be smoothed or polished, for example. It is to beunderstood that the drum 226 may be balanced by any other means known inthe art, such as sandblasting, grinding, or balancing or correctingweights, and combinations thereof, for example.

It is to be understood that the number of layers comprising thecylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum 226 can be varied from a singlelayer to four or more layers, for example, and the relative positions ofthe different layers used may vary. Further, the hub 130 may alsocomprise the first layer of the drum 226. It is also to be understoodthat the drum 226 may be manufactured using different methods andmaterials without departing from the scope and spirit of the inventiveconcepts disclosed herein. For example, certain arrangements of magneticfield permeable materials may be configured to define a magnetic-fieldimpermeable zone along the sidewall in some embodiments of the instantinventive concepts.

In operation, a generator assembly 100 according to the inventiveconcepts disclosed herein may generate electricity as follows: the shaft118 is preferably connected to the shaft 56 of wind generator turbine50. As wind rotates the blades 52 of the wind generator turbine 50,mechanical energy is provided to rotate the shaft 118, which in turnrotates the cylindrical sidewall 276 inside the air gap 116 separatingthe magnet 172 from the coil 192. The alternating magnetic fieldpermeable zones 294 and magnetic field impermeable zones 296 of thecylindrical sidewall 276 are preferably alternatively disposed betweenthe magnet 172 and the coil 192 as the drum 226 rotates. The magneticfield permeable zones 294 preferably allow the magnetic field to passthrough the cylindrical sidewall 276 of the drum 226, and the magneticfield impermeable zones 296 redirect the magnetic field, such that itdoes not pass through the cylindrical sidewall 276. This alternatingmagnetic field creates radial flux, which induces electrical currentinto the coil 192. The electrical current can then be allowed to flowthrough an external circuit, and may have its output optimized for itsintended use by devices such as rectifiers, inverters, and transformers,for usable voltage and frequency as desired.

The mechanical energy used to rotate shaft 118 of a generator assembly100 can be supplied from any suitable source such as, but expressly notlimited to: a water turbine, a steam turbine, an internal combustionengine, a steam engine, a coal turbine, or a water wheel, for example.The connection between the shaft 56 of the wind generator turbine 50 andthe shaft 118 of the generator assembly 100 may be a direct mechanicalconnection, or alternatively a gearbox, a speed control assembly, or abrake assembly may be used to connect the shaft 56 to the shaft 118. Itshould also be understood that, because of the nature of the design andthe ability to reconfigure the drum 226 with multiple apertures and fluxassemblies, this device is well adapted for, but not limited to, low rpmenvironments, such as wind or water driven turbines, as more than onemagnetic field change can be induced in a single rotation of the drum226.

It is to be understood that the dimensions given and described hereinmay not be suitable for a commercial embodiment of a generator assembly100 according to the inventive concepts disclosed herein. A commercialembodiment of a generator assembly 100 built using the inventiveconcepts disclosed herein may be much larger in dimensions, and maylikely include a large number of flux assemblies 104 a. An exemplarycommercial embodiment of the inventive concepts disclosed herein isshown in FIGS. 27-28. The generator assembly 100 has a plurality of rowsof flux assemblies 104 a, 104 b, and 104 c arranged in a plurality ofrows 310 in order to increase the output of the generator assembly 100.The plurality of flux assemblies 104 a, 104 b, and 104 c can for examplebe positioned such that two or more flux assemblies 104 a form a row 310a, two or more flux assemblies 104 b form a row 310 b, and two or moreflux assemblies 104 c form a row 310 c along the drum 226. One, two, ormore than three such rows 310 a, 310 b, and 310 c can be formed byplurality of flux assemblies 104 a, 104 b, and 104 c for increasedefficiency. As shown in FIG. 28 the flux assemblies 104 within each row310 can be offset angularly by a fixed amount ϕ (in this example by60°). Further, the flux assemblies 104 between each row 310 can beoffset angularly by a fixed amount ⊖ that in this example is 20°. Itshould be understood that ϕ and ⊖ can vary and will depend either on thenumber of flux assemblies 104 within each row 310 and/or the number ofrows 310 of the generator assembly 100.

It is to be further understood that while permanent magnets have beendescribed as the magnetic field source, electromagnets, combinations ofpermanent magnets and electromagnets, or any other suitable magneticfield source may also be used with the inventive concepts disclosedherein without departing from the scope and spirit thereof.

From the above description, it is clear that the inventive conceptsdisclosed herein are well adapted to carry out the objects and to attainthe advantages mentioned herein as well as those inherent in theinventive concepts disclosed herein. While presently preferredembodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed herein have beendescribed for purposes of this disclosure, it will be understood thatnumerous changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves tothose skilled in the art and which are accomplished within the scope andspirit of the inventive concepts disclosed and claimed herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electromagnetic generator, comprising: a firstflux assembly having at least one first coil and at least one firstmagnetic field source separated by a first gap; a second flux assemblyhaving at least one second coil and at least one second magnetic fieldsource separated by a second gap; the first flux assembly beingmagnetically and electrically isolated from the second flux assembly; aninterference drum having a sidewall, the sidewall being at leastpartially positioned inside the first and second gaps and comprising atleast one magnetic field permeable zone and at least one magnetic fieldimpermeable zone; and wherein the interference drum is movable relativeto the at least one first and second coils and to the at least one firstand second magnetic field sources to alternatively position the at leastone magnetic field permeable zone and the at least one magnetic fieldimpermeable zone inside the first and second gaps.
 2. Theelectromagnetic generator from claim 1, wherein the first and secondgaps are axial gaps.
 3. The electromagnetic generator of claim 1,wherein the interference drum is configured to generate a magnetic fluxin the at least one first and second coils.
 4. The electromagneticgenerator of claim 3, wherein the magnetic flux is radial magnetic flux.5. The electromagnetic generator of claim 1, wherein the sidewallcomprises two or more magnetic field impermeable zones separated by twoor more magnetic field permeable zones.
 6. The electromagnetic generatorof claim 1, wherein the sidewall has a cylindrical configuration.
 7. Theinterference drum of claim 1, wherein the sidewall further comprises twoor more magnetic permeable zones separated by two or more magnetic fieldimpermeable zones.
 8. The interference drum of claim 1, wherein thesidewall has a cylindrical configuration.
 9. A method of generatingelectrical energy, comprising: using an electromagnetic generator togenerate electrical energy, the electromagnetic generator comprising: afirst flux assembly having at least one first coil and at least onefirst magnetic field source separated by a first gap; a second fluxassembly having at least one second coil and at least one secondmagnetic field source separated by a second gap; the first flux assemblybeing magnetically and electrically isolated from the second fluxassembly; an interference drum having a sidewall comprising at least onemagnetic field permeable zone and at least one magnetic fieldimpermeable zone and at least partially positioned inside the first andsecond gaps separating the at least one coil and the at least onemagnetic field source; wherein the interference drum is movable insidethe first and second gaps to alternatively position the at least onemagnetic field permeable zone and the at least one magnetic fieldimpermeable zone inside the first and second gaps separating the atleast one first and second coils and the at least one first and secondmagnetic field sources to create magnetic flux into the at least onefirst and second coils, such that electrical current is induced into theat least one first and second coils; and establishing a circuit betweenthe at least one first and second coils and a power grid to permit theelectrical energy to flow to the power grid.
 10. The method ofgenerating electrical energy of claim 9, wherein the first and secondgaps are axial gaps.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the magneticflux is a radial flux.
 12. The method of generating electrical energy ofclaim 9, wherein the sidewall further comprises two or more magneticfield permeable zones separated by two or more magnetic fieldimpermeable zones, at least partially positioned inside the first andsecond gaps.
 13. An electromagnetic generator, comprising: a first fluxassembly having at least one first coil and at least one first magneticfield source separated by a first gap, the at least one first magneticfield source having a magnetic field passing in a path between the atleast one first magnetic field source and the at least one first coilacross the first gap; a second flux assembly having at least one secondcoil and at least one second magnetic field source separated by a secondgap, the at least one second magnetic field source having a magneticfield passing in a path between the at least one second magnetic fieldsource and the at least one second coil across the second gap; the firstflux assembly being magnetically and electrically isolated from thesecond flux assembly; an interference drum comprising: a sidewallpositioned at least partially inside the first and second gaps of thefirst and second flux assembly and movable relative to the first andsecond flux assembly; a first magnetic field permeable zone; a secondmagnetic field permeable zone; and a magnetic field impermeable zoneinterleaved with the first and second magnetic field permeable zoneswherein rotation of the interference drum alternately positions thefirst magnetic field permeable zone, the magnetic field impermeablezone, and the second magnetic field permeable zone into primarypositions a first distance away from the respective first and secondflux assembly and secondary positions a second distance away from therespective first and second flux assembly, wherein a strength of themagnetic field passing between the at least one first and secondmagnetic field source and the at least one first and second coil acrossthe first and second gap, respectively, varies when the first and secondmagnetic field permeable zones are moved between the primary positionsand the secondary positions, wherein the first and second magnetic fieldpermeable zones and the first and second flux assembly are arranged suchthat only one of the first and second magnetic field permeable zones isin the primary position at a particular instant in time.
 14. Anelectromagnetic generator, comprising: a first row of flux assemblieswith the flux assemblies in the first row having at least one first coiland at least one first magnetic field source separated by a first gap,each of the flux assemblies in the first row being magnetically andelectrically isolated from each other; a second row of flux assemblieswith the flux assemblies in the second row having at least one secondcoil and at least one second magnetic field source separated by a secondgap, each of the flux assemblies in the second row being magneticallyand electrically isolated from each other; the flux assemblies in thefirst row being offset angularly from the flux assemblies in the secondrow; an interference drum having a sidewall, the sidewall being at leastpartially positioned inside the first gap and the second gap andcomprising at least one magnetic field permeable zone and at least onemagnetic field impermeable zone; and wherein the interference drum ismovable relative to the at least one first and second coils and to theat least one first and second magnetic field sources to alternativelyposition the at least one magnetic field permeable zone and the at leastone magnetic field impermeable zone inside the first and second gaps.